Maguire reveals why he could not turn down Man Utd offer

Harry Maguire (right) with Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Manchester United have completed the signing of Harry Maguire from Leicester for a fee understood to be £80million, a world record for a defender.

The 26-year-old England international has signed a six -year contract at Old Trafford, with the option for a further 12 months.

Maguire was strongly linked with both Manchester clubs over the summer but Leicester held out for their valuation and the fee surpasses the £75million Liverpool paid Southampton for Virgil Van Dijk in January 2018.

“I am delighted to have signed for this great club,” Maguire told United’s official website. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Leicester and would like to thank everyone at the club, and the fans, for their fantastic support over the past two seasons.

“However, when Manchester United come knocking on your door, it is an incredible opportunity.

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“From my conversations with the manager, I am excited about the vision and plans he has for the team. It’s clear to see that Ole (Gunnar Solskjaer) is building a team to win trophies. I am now looking forward to meeting my new team-mates and getting the season started.”

Maguire could make his debut in Sunday’s Premier League opener against Chelsea at Old Trafford.

Solskjaer said: “Harry is one of the best centre-backs in the game today and I am delighted we have secured his signature.

“He is a great reader of the game and has a strong presence on the pitch, with the ability to remain calm under pressure – coupled with his composure on the ball and a huge presence in both boxes – I can see he will fit well into this group both on and off the pitch.”

Maguire becomes United’s third signing of the summer, having last month completed deals for Swansea flyer Daniel James and Crystal Palace right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

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Solskjaer has confirmed United are still in the market for more signings before Thursday’s Premier League transfer deadline and the scrutiny is on after slumping home sixth last season.

Juventus forward Paulo Dybala has been in talks over a swap deal that would see Romelu Lukaku go the other way, but it’s reported that the Argentina international’s astronomical demands have put paid to that move.